Military: Eight vigilantes killed in Plateau ambush

The Special Military Task Force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), responsible for maintaining peace in Plateau State, has confirmed that eight vigilante members were killed in an ambush by bandits in Kanam Local Government Area last Sunday.

Major Samson Zhakom, the taskforce’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, clarifying earlier reports that exaggerated the death toll.

The statement read: “Following recent media reports alleging the killing of 70 vigilantes in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State, Headquarters Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) wishes to clarify the incident.

“While OPSH confirms the occurrence of the event, certain details circulating are inaccurate. Below is an official account of what transpired.”

According to OPSH, the vigilantes had embarked on an unsanctioned mission without prior notice to the military.

“On 6 July 2025, a large group of vigilantes mobilised from Kanam LGA with the intent to conduct an independent operation without notifying OPSH troops. Upon arriving at Kukawa community, where they had temporarily halted for administrative purposes, the vigilantes engaged in a confrontation with some residents. Reports indicate that they attacked civilians and looted several provision shops in the area.”

“Additionally, the vigilantes allegedly seized over 20 motorcycles from Kukawa residents, claiming they were finalising administrative procedures before proceeding to Odare Forest for their mission.”

However, the situation took a deadly turn when they were ambushed while heading toward the forest.

“However, while advancing toward the forest, the group was ambushed by armed bandits, resulting in the death of eight vigilantes, with others still missing. The remains of the deceased have been recovered and buried, while troops from Sector 2 OPSH in Wase are conducting search and rescue operations to locate the missing individuals.”

The military also used the incident to caution vigilante groups about unsanctioned operations, warning that such actions could escalate tensions and put more lives at risk.

“In light of this incident, OPSH strongly advises all vigilante groups and individuals within the state against conducting unauthorised operations without prior coordination with security forces.

“While we recognise the vigilantes’ intent to protect under served areas, independent actions without OPSH’s approval endanger both the operatives and innocent civilians.”

“OPSH remains committed to maintaining peace and security in Plateau State and will take decisive action against any individual or group undermining these efforts, regardless of their motives.

“We urge the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing actionable intelligence and reporting suspicious activities within their communities,” the statement concluded.